Looking for a gaming laptop on a budget can be challenging, as gaming is a demanding task with many requirements. First and foremost, you need to look for a system with a powerful CPU, a reliable GPU, and a good cooling system to reach constant, high frame rates. Check out the best low-budget gaming laptops that have been tested.
1. Acer Nitro V 16
The Acer Nitro V 16 offers a compelling balance of performance and affordability. Its RTX 4050 GPU handles modern games smoothly, and the 165Hz display ensures fluid visuals. While the build is plastic and the keyboard may feel mushy, it’s a strong contender for budget-conscious gamers.
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CPU: Intel Core i5-13420H
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GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050
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Display: 16-inch, 1920 x 1200, 165Hz
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Price: $969.49
Pros
Attractive price
Suffices for 1080p gaming
Wide selection of ports
Lengthy battery life
Cons
Lagging processor performance
Limited 512GB SSD
2. Dell G16 (7630)
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CPU: Intel Core i7-13650HX
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GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
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Display: 16-inch, 2560 x 1600, 240Hz
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Price: Around $999.99
Typically seen in flagship variants, the Dell G16 stands out for its high-resolution, high-refresh-rate display and mechanical keyboard. Its gaming performance is remarkable for the cost, albeit its webcam is mediocre and it is somewhat weighty.
Pros
Powerful GPU (RTX 4060) and fast Intel Core i7
High-Resolution Display (2560 x 1600) with 240Hz refresh rate
Optional Mechanical Keyboard (Cherry MX switches)
Solid Build Quality
Cons
Heavy and Bulky (not ideal for travel)
Mediocre Webcam
Can Run Hot during long sessions
3. MSI Thin GF63
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CPU: Intel Core i5-12450H
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GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050
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Display: 15.6-inch, 1080p, 144Hz
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Price: $852
The MSI GF63 Thin 9SC-068 15.6″ Gaming Laptop is a budget-friendly option that delivers solid performance for gamers. With an Intel Core i5-9300H processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX1650 graphics card, it can handle most games without any issues. The laptop features a thin bezel design and a high-quality 4K screen, offering an immersive gaming experience. One standout feature of the GF63 Thin 9SC-068 is its cooling system.
Pros
Lightweight and Portable – ideal for students
Decent Gaming at 1080p with RTX 4050
Affordable Price Point
Cons
Basic Build Quality
Lower Refresh Rate compared to competitors (144Hz)
Limited Upgradeability
4. Acer Nitro V 15
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CPU: Intel Core i5-13420H
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GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050
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Display: 15.6-inch, 1080p
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Price: $849.99
The Acer Nitro V 15 is notable for its extensive connectivity options, including multiple USB ports and HDMI. While it comes with only 8GB of RAM and a mediocre display, it’s a solid choice for those needing versatility in their gaming laptops.
Pros
Same CPU/GPU as Nitro V 16 at a lower price
Ample Connectivity Options (USB ports, HDMI)
Budget-Friendly Choice
Cons
Only 8GB RAM out of the box
Mediocre Display quality
No QHD or High Refresh Option
5. HP Victus 15
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CPU: AMD Ryzen 5-7535HS
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GPU: RTX 2050
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Display: 15.6-inch, 144Hz
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Price: $946
The HP Victus 15 offers a balanced gaming experience with its Ryzen processor and RTX 2050 GPU. It’s suitable for casual gaming and everyday tasks, making it a versatile option for budget-conscious users.
Pros
Balanced Ryzen 5 and RTX 2050 Combo
144Hz Display is solid for casual gaming
Good for Everyday Tasks + Light Gaming
Cons
Older GPU (RTX 2050) limits newer titles on high settings
Less Future-Proof than others on the list
Build Quality is Just Average
CPU: AMD Ryzen 5-7535HS
GPU: GeForce RTX 2050
Display: 15.6-inch, 144Hz
Price: $866
In Conclusion
Getting a strong gaming laptop on a budget is no longer a fantasy. Without breaking the bank, choose among the Acer Nitro V, Dell G16, and MSI Thin GF63 to experience high refresh rates, smooth gameplay, and contemporary GPUs. These laptops demonstrate that performance and cost may coexist hand in hand, whether you are an aspiring eSports contender or a weekend gamer. To get the best bang for your buck, just be sure to give top importance to which most graphics, portability, or screen quality. For more gaming gear recommendations, check out Total Apex Gaming!
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